Super Bowl performer Usher says faith keeps him ‘centred’
Usher Raymond IV, renowned for his two-decade-long music career, attributes his stability to his faith, especially as he gears up for his performance at Super Bowl 58. Usher, who began singing in his church choir at a young age, expressed gratitude for a family who instilled in him the importance of church and faith. His debut album marked the beginning of an illustrious career, earning him a spot among the best-selling music artists globally, with sales of 80 million records worldwide. Despite his success, Usher emphasises the importance of staying true to oneself, avoiding getting swept up in fame. His commitment to his faith is evident in his albums' liner notes, social media, and public acknowledgments of God. He often shares scriptures, like Psalm 46:10, to express his spirituality. He considers the Super Bowl halftime show an extraordinary honour and a significant milestone in his career. His journey, marked by both fame and personal challenges, continues to be guided by his steadfast faith.
King Charles diagnosed with cancer
Buckingham Palace has announced that King Charles, aged 75, has been diagnosed with cancer. The cancer (the type has not been disclosed) was discovered during treatment for an enlarged prostate. As a result, the King has started 'regular treatments' and has put his public duties on hold, though he remains optimistic about his recovery and eager to resume full duties as soon as possible. The King personally informed his sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, about his diagnosis. Despite stepping back from public engagements, he will continue his constitutional duties, including weekly telephone meetings with Rishi Sunak. Queen Camilla, Prince William, the Princess Royal, and Prince Edward will cover some of his duties. The King has been vocal about his condition to raise awareness and encourage cancer screenings.
Northern Ireland: Sunak to examine proposals for greater defence role
Rishi Sunak has expressed willingness to review a report suggesting Northern Ireland should enhance its role in the UK's national security. He did so during Prime Minister’s Questions, where DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson praised Sunak for reviving Stormont's political institutions, strengthening the union, and revitalising Northern Ireland's economy and political landscape. He urged Sunak to consider the Policy Exchange report, which recommends increasing Northern Ireland's contribution to national defence. The report highlights Northern Ireland's strategic importance, advocating for expanded naval and air operations against Russian threats and urging collaboration with regional partners for collective security. Sunak commended Sir Jeffrey's leadership and acknowledged the enhanced union due to the return of devolution.
Calls for more scrutiny on religious conversion by asylum-seekers
The Home Secretary is reviewing whether tighter scrutiny is needed for asylum seekers claiming conversion to Christianity. This follows the case of Abdul Ezedi, a 35-year-old Afghan asylum seeker and convicted sex offender, who converted to Christianity and is suspected of a chemical attack in South London. James Cleverly will receive a detailed report on Ezedi, highlighting concerns about the authenticity of conversions among refugees. Tim Loughton MP emphasised the need for rigorous examination of such claims to assess the risk of returning these individuals to their home countries. Former home secretary Suella Braverman accused the Church of enabling widespread false asylum claims. David Rees, a church elder, said that forty asylum seekers on the Bibby Stockholm barge are Christian converts; some had converted before they had arrived in the UK. He outlined the church's process for verifying conversions, including public testimonies in the converts' native languages. The Home Office stated it has procedures to prevent fraudulent asylum claims based on religious beliefs.
